All participants in today's testing are distinguished by their small dimensions and the ability battery life from built-in powerful battery. Thus, the devices are primarily designed for use with smartphones and portable players. However, nothing prevents you from using them with desktop computer and a laptop - after all, the built-in headphone amplifier can cope not only with portable headphone models, but also with full-size ones, and even with very low sensitivity. Moreover, a dedicated line output allows you to connect active speakers in addition to headphones. So, saying "USB DAC for mobile devices"let's not forget that this is true universal devices. The scope of their application is very wide and clearly goes beyond the “listen to music on the go” option. For example, three out of six participants have an advanced proprietary ASIO driver, and two of them have the ability to play PCM up to 384 kHz and DSD. Such capabilities bring them to the level of traditional external USB DAC.
What is the difference from large stationary DACs? The point is mainly in minor inconveniences: all input-output connectors are only in mini-jack format, there is no screen. But the digital inputs and outputs S/PDIF, inherent in “large” devices, are retained.
Let's take a closer look at the participants.
Creative Sound Blaster E5
This is the manufacturer's new, most advanced model, with a 4-core DSP processor on board, a hardware equalizer and a ton of Creative processing. When connected to a computer, the Sound Blaster E5 turns into a full-fledged sound card with ADC, drivers, internal mixer, headset input, line input and everything else. When connected to a smartphone or tablet, it is a full-fledged USB DAC with a battery inside. There is a dedicated full-size USB input for iOS/Android devices. Micro-USB - only for computer and battery charging. There is also Bluetooth for wireless use, for example, as a headset - microphones are built into the card. Available for iOS/Android special application, which manages all settings of the internal processor from the mobile phone.
Nobody expected miracles from this Creative card - inexpensive (MSRP $200), with a very controversial design, a bunch of SBX Pro Studio processing that no studio had ever heard of. We are already tired of criticizing Creative for its desire to “cram in more of everything” in order to satisfy all users at once. The result is a harvester that can't really do anything well. Users who need a lot of features and don't care about sound quality are not willing to pay a high price for a card. And those who are willing to pay demand first of all sound quality, considering everything else as a free bonus.
In fact, it turned out that the Sound Blaster E5 is a completely new development that has nothing in common with all previous budget Creative USB cards and is radically different from the younger E1 and E3 models. The new E5 card is the only one that does everything the way we would like. There is normal direct support from 44.1 to 192 kHz and surprisingly excellent hardware:
- Cirrus Logic CS4398 DAC
- Cirrus Logic CS5361 ADC
- Headphone amplifier Texas Instruments TPA6120A2
It is clear that even a good filling is not a guarantee of quality. However, compared to the pretty good new card E3, not to mention all the previous Omni, etc., the older model E5 played much better! The drivers are much better designed, there is a special Direct Mode that clearly disables all processing, the ASIO driver supports all frequencies and works correctly. The map has been designed very carefully and is very promising. (This was largely the result of our constant pressure on Creative, relying on readers and quoting their opinions from our forum.) Unique features of the E5 include two headphone outputs, a microphone array of three built-in microphones with a position sensor, included holder with mounting on a microphone stand. Still, Creative’s marketing couldn’t resist and stuffed more of everything into the map, right to the hilt.
Note that the E5 has a relatively bulky body, a volume control without notches, and connecting Android devices via Micro-USB is impossible. But the affordable price and outstanding sound will outweigh these minor shortcomings and Singaporean marketing quirks for many. In general, it completely unexpectedly turned out to be the strongest competitor in the market of both USB sound cards and mobile USB DACs.
Oppo HA-2
Oppo developers were able to surprise with a stunning design and the most intriguing filling: the ESS Saber32 9018 DAC in its mobile version 2M. This looks quite natural, since the Oppo HA-1 stationary DAC is based on the original ESS Sabre32 9018 for Hi-End component devices. This microcircuit has today record signal-to-noise and Kg characteristics, surpassing all other DAC microcircuits by a large margin. Other manufacturers rarely use 9018, since it is very expensive and requires a lot of experience in “cooking” it (for some reason, Chinese homemade kits from eBay “do not sound”). Another bonus from using Sabre32 is support for PCM up to 384 kHz and DSD64/128/256. Oppo developers have also provided ASIO drivers with the ability to install a very large buffer of up to 8192 samples and select high priority for USB stream transmission in the system.
Thus, the Oppo HA-2 USB DAC has been very carefully designed and prepared for the most demanding and advanced users. The only drawback is probably not the most affordable price. But Oppo HA-2 is the thinnest external DAC among all participants. He factor of thinner than others, even despite the additional non-removable leather cover! Case material - aluminum, all-metal case. As with Creative, we tested with a pre-production sample provided by the manufacturer. According to Oppo, an updated version will be released into the series, with even better sound quality and increased amplifier power reserve.
Denon DA-10
The DAC is based on TI PCM1795 - this is the favorite chip of the Japanese from Denon. This 32-bit converter can play PCM up to 192 kHz and even DSD64/128. It is stated that digital filtering is carried out using special proprietary AL32 advanced DSP technology. But what impressed us most was the giant two-piece leather case included, which is designed to carry both the DAC and the smartphone at once.
The device is made of plastic with decorative aluminum plates and a handle. The case is made thick intentionally - so that in sound card mode it is convenient to turn the volume knob. Denon DA-10 is made very well, comes with an ASIO driver and is not cheap. It feels like this is a very high-end device, designed to compete with the most expensive models without descending into the mass market. The kit even includes cables for iOS devices - both with a Lightning connector and a 30-pin one. Everything looks as thought out as possible.
FiiO E18 Kunlun
The Chinese FiiO DAC with the patriotic prefix Kunlun (Mountains of the Moon, the largest mountain system in China) contrasts with the previous participant in its affordability and democracy. There is neither an ASIO driver nor a connector for connecting an iPhone. The E18 Kunlun model is designed for use only with Android devices and allows you to connect very simply, with a miniature Micro-USB-Micro-USB cable. It also connects to a PC, after which it immediately starts working without requiring drivers. However, there is a trick: the device is seen in the system as a digital S/PDIF output, as if hinting to the OS that the mixer transmits data bit by bit, without multiplying or dividing the digital stream in the mixer and without mixing anything with the result.
The design of the device is chic - everything is completely metal, miniature. Note the additional Micro-USB for charging, which is different from the interface Micro-USB for pairing devices. This is one of the very few DACs that has a choice of modes: PC, Phone, Charge Out ( sound card PC, external DAC for Android and just recharging the phone battery). Unlike many FiiO DACs, it uses not WM8740, but TI PCM1798. Volume control - Alps. This is the second reincarnation of the device, with minor improvements. For its low cost, the DAC looks like a work of art - a very formidable contender in the budget category.
Tento Porta DAC 1866
The German-made Tento Porta DAC 1866 has a radically opposite ideology. This product was the pinnacle of a long journey for adherents of orthodox R-2R DACs, such as the Analog Devices AD1866 used here. This DAC only works in 16-bit 44 kHz mode, but that's exactly what fans of various homemade devices with exotic filling. There is a theory circulating on the Internet that the “golden age” of numbers ended with the advent of low-bit converters with oversampling. They say that the soul of sound recording is lost behind high technical specifications. Actually, for a long time it was like this: the first 1-bit converters played just awful. Now the situation is not at all so clear-cut, no matter what some anarchist-minded leaders of specialized forums say.
So, this Tento DAC is made for those who collect custom products and are nostalgic for the good old days. From the trends of progress, there are Mini-USB and Bluetooth interfaces. However, there is also an optical/coaxial S/PDIF and an unregulated line output. The kit comes with very good quality cables, and the foam packaging even touched us. There is only one minus of the device - the price is not so low that you can just buy it for your collection. This is probably a price to pay for being handmade and manufactured in Germany.
Venture Craft Go DAP BXD
The Japanese from Venture Craft outdid everyone else with their pretentiousness. This is the case when we, who have seen a lot of things, could not stand it and fainted. Starting with the instructions only in Japanese and ending with the lack of a DAC operating mode via the USB bus, despite the fact that the Micro-USB connector is present! However, you are required to connect only via optical or coaxial.
This is the only DAC on a very strange PCM5100A converter, but with a Muse 8920 in the preamp! You will be surprised, but the kit even includes printed circuit boards for adjusting the damping factor of a balanced amplifier (!) with a 2.5 mm microjack connector (the adapter must be purchased separately). The product is clearly for “monsieurs who know a lot about perversions.” However, the headphone amplifier is an old friend, MAX97220A, which has proven itself very well in well-known products.
The figures for the device's specifications look strange. If the impedance of 8-600 Ohms is shocking in its range, then the quality is lower than any shabby integrated sound: 95 dB signal/noise, 0.01% distortion. We hasten to please you: this is a self-incrimination of the manufacturer. Our measurement numbers turned out much better: 100 dB signal-to-noise and 0.002% distortion at any load.
Overall: a nice, but very strange, in our European opinion, device, all the settings of which are regulated by opening the case and rearranging jumpers and miniature printed circuit boards. One gets the impression that this is not a USB DAC, but some kind of “Tamagotchi for an audiophile.” Our wish to the manufacturer is to think of the same replacement for miniature block boards with a DAC chip, and also to revive operation via USB. It doesn’t look as cool as a sandwich of three devices (and this is exactly the example shown on the manufacturer’s website), but it’s convenient!
Headphones
For our testing, we specifically selected headphones that would suit the typical use of high-end mobile DACs.
As in-ear headphones(IEM, “plugs”) we tried Grado GR10 (20 thousand rubles), Fisher Audio TBA04 (10 thousand rubles), Sennheiser IE-8i (12 thousand rubles), Creative Aurvana in-Ear3 (6 thousand rubles) .
We ended up using a Grado GR10 (32 Ohm, 116 dB/mW) and a Sennheiser IE-8i (16 Ohm). These small headphones retain the signature sound of their larger brothers. Very interesting models, worthy of a good quality DAC. Fisher Audio and Creative have some work to do.
Grado RS1e (35 thousand rubles) are excellent, very smooth headphones. The 32 Ohm impedance makes them suitable for listening even without a preamplifier or, conversely, saves battery power on the amplifier. The only feature is the over-ear (supra-aural) headphones, with pressure directly to the ears. For long listening sessions, it is better to loosen the headband. The sound is traditional for the classic Grado series, very comfortable. Perhaps there is a slight overpayment for mahogany in the design.
Grado SR325is (14 thousand rubles) - more modern version, closer in sound to the Professional series. The cups are made of aluminum, which hints at a more “folk” model. The headphones simply amazed us with the detail in the midrange. The difference between the tested DACs was perhaps most pronounced on them. Grado SR325is play well above their price. After testing, we even bought this model for our own personal use. There are also disadvantages: the sound is rougher than in the Reference series. We definitely recommend listening!
Audio-Technica ATH-M50x (9 thousand rubles) - very popular model with well-balanced sound and detail throughout the entire range. One of the best foldable headphones, and the emphasis on bass will come in handy on the road. The 38 Ohm impedance makes them suitable for connecting directly to a smartphone, but there is considerable benefit from a separate amplifier.
Beyerdynamic DT 1350 (16 thousand rubles) - a new product in the Tesla series, especially for portable equipment, with a cord shortened to 1.5 m. A very strange model with weak bass response. On the Internet, reviews are divided into two equal categories: “I didn’t understand what it was” and “very smooth, unadorned sound, I’m happy.” We obviously fall into the first category, but we do not exclude that there will be lovers of this sound.
Testing methodology
We connected all 6 devices to one computer at the same time. 6 portable copies of foobar2000 were created. The test composition was started and a comfortable volume level was set. Next, using the RMAA program, we set the same volume for all devices with headphones connected to eliminate the influence of voltage drop from load. The volume of all devices was set with an accuracy of 0.1 dB.
This is very important, since even the same device under test, with a difference in the volume of the phonogram of only tenths of a dB, can be perceived as higher quality in the case of a louder version. When playing the same file! Subjectively, it will seem that there are more details, a little better bass, attack, etc. That is, in essence, the device will “lose to itself,” which is completely unacceptable for proper examination. It is clear that when compared with a obviously bad device, these measures look like reinsurance, but when comparing audio paths of the same class, such requirements are mandatory. World-class mastering expert Andrei Subbotin warned about this all the time. With regard to the preparation of phonograms, he always demanded that only mastered versions of the phonogram be compared in loudness. Comparing something with different volumes is a path to self-deception, since the louder option is for human hearing Always It will sound a little better. Everyone can easily verify this.
Sound
The examination took us several days. We understand the importance of this comparison and our responsibility to our readers. Anyone can check the results themselves - and, we are sure, will come to the same conclusions. We even specially invited two independent experts to once again make sure that the assessments of all trained listeners were similar. There may be only slight nuances in the interpretation of terms, but not in the global assessment of sound quality.
Determining the scope of our scale, we took two devices: the integrated sound of a modern laptop (Realtek ALC282 audio codec) and the Lynx Aurora 8 rack-mount studio interface. Realtek sound features: there are no obvious distortions or sound defects, but there is no detail either. All soundtracks are played synthetically, with a very flat stereo panorama, reverberation tails are not audible. In audiophile terms, the sound is compressed, lifeless, and listening to it for a long time is very unpleasant. The top-tier Lynx Aurora 8's interface is the complete opposite. It is impossible to tear yourself away from the music. The stereo panorama goes far beyond the room, but not due to artificial effects, but thanks to the high detail, very clean and dense mid frequencies, the reverberation of each instrument in the mix is clearly audible individually. Modern phonograms with very strong volume maximization do not overload the sound path; their distortions mystically become barely noticeable and do not interfere. All claims and arguments about “soulless numbers” inexplicably disappear, everything good that you expect from a recording becomes audible in the sound, and nothing distracts from the perception of the music. This is what an ideal path should be like. Of course, questions remain with the interpretation of timbres and with the absolute reference. For example, it often happens that one device has cleaner high frequencies, but is less preferable in sound in some other range. But before this problem of very subtle nuances, inexpensive devices still need to grow for a long time and persistently.
So, in comparison with the integrated sound of a laptop and even with the sound of a good phone codec Samsung Note 3, any of the tested USB DACs play better by an order of magnitude. And the better the headphones or speakers play, the better the difference is heard, the more new details appear in the sound. This means that it makes sense to purchase these devices, but only for owners of a normal audio path. Not necessarily Hi-End, but successful models of Hi-Fi equipment or studio monitors are the required minimum.
We sorted the test participants according to their quality hit parade.
Venture Craft Go DAP BXD sounds good and smooth, but this DAC is too simple. In justification, let's say that its DAC function is not the main one, it is more of an analog headphone amplifier. There is a strong feeling that the Japanese have the DAC screwed to the side, just in case. Well, you never know. 6th place.
Tento Porta DAC 1866 stands out with its sound character compared to all the others. Apparently, this was the main goal of the developer. The sound level is high, but you won't swoon over the quality or detail. We personally haven’t heard any “golden age of digital” here. The sound is not bad, a little rough. Mid frequencies are transmitted most well and reliably. We are confident that the device will find its fans of pure R-2R converters. The headphone amplifier is very well made; judging by the complete absence of sag from the load, the device has a powerful buffer and zero output resistance. 5th place.
The FiiO E18 Kunlun performed very strongly. You don't expect such a sound from 1798. Such a democratic, affordable, high-quality level. The gap from the leaders is very small - at a very attractive price. The model is certainly successful. High frequencies are very clear and detailed. Great sound. 4th place.
The Sound Blaster E5 amazed us with its detail in the midrange and captivated us with its very wide stereo panorama. There is literally just a little left to the leaders, and if your headphones or speakers are not Hi-End class, then you will most likely not hear any difference. The sound is almost optimal. This is exactly what we wanted from a USB DAC. You can listen for a long time even on the most expensive equipment and not see any flaws. Compared to the Denon, we couldn't give preference to any of these devices. Both are on the same level, with the sound of the highest category. Tied for 2nd and 3rd place.
The Denon DA-10 is a great sounding DAC. Special merits for high frequencies, the nature of the sound is closer to audiophile than to analytical. It feels like it has its own special interpretation. For fans of the brand and stationary devices of this Japanese company, it is highly recommended. Tied for 2nd and 3rd place.
Oppo HA-2 outperforms everyone, although very slightly, but confidently. We cannot say that the sound is reference, but it is as detailed as possible, and this is immediately captivating. To unlock your full potential, it is better to choose the highest quality headphones and speakers, and then something new, previously unheard, will be revealed in the sound. There is no sense of any color or interpretation here. The emphasis from the equipment is immediately transferred to the music, and that's great! 1st place.
Sound from speakers
Since all USB DACs have a linear output, we were interested in listening to the sound not only in headphones, but also in speakers. We used active studio monitors of the highest category, 3-way Adam Audio.
We didn't hear anything particularly new compared to testing with headphones. Everything said above is fully confirmed. The difference in some cases is simply more obvious, since all recordings are primarily designed for listening to speakers. To be fair, there are separate binaural phonograms for headphones, recorded on an artificial head, but things have not gone further than experiments. The main conclusion is that despite their small dimensions and minijack connector, all USB DACs are suitable as stationary audio sources - while stationary DACs are not suitable as mobile devices.
However, you will have to deal with the switching problem. You still have to look for high-quality cords with a minijack connector, and Chinese adapters for full-size connectors can, with one awkward movement, unscrew the miniature connector of a mobile DAC along with a part printed circuit board and disable the device. In our testing, we took special care of this issue and used a new maximum quality cord with gold-plated Neutrik connectors and professional Canare cable (not one bit of which was made in China). Next, a passive attenuator was connected based on a modified factory sample with ready-made new Neutrik/Cordial XLR cords. For the mass user, solving all these issues presents insurmountable difficulties when finding and purchasing an acceptable option. To the list of these difficulties we add the lack of a remote control, a screen with the current mode, and the risk of sending a mobile DAC “flying” with a sharp tug on the headphone cord. That's why landline USB DACs are still preferable in their field of use, and their sound potential is higher. But with a limited budget, the question of purchasing a separate stationary DAC for 40-100 thousand rubles, as a rule, is not worth it at all; the matter is limited to an inexpensive receiver and media player.
Measurements in RMAA
We have assembled a special complex to study the behavior of headphone amplifiers at low-impedance loads. Regular tests in RMAA are not indicative, since they do not reflect the operating features. Tests without load show a simply ideal picture, but under load the distortion increases many times over.
Headphone amplifiers are often plagued by the following problems: a sag in the frequency response at low frequencies and a sharp increase in distortion with a drop in load impedance, and sometimes overload at 16 Ohms. For comparison, conventional measurements on the graphs are shown with a “dash” sign (that is, there is no load), otherwise the resistor value is indicated. We chose the most representative values: 16 Ohm, 32 Ohm, 64 Ohm, 300 Ohm.
To obtain clean spectra and break ground loops, all DACs were connected in turn to an MXP U400-08 ultrabook running on battery power. The E-MU Tracker Pre measurement card was also powered by a laptop battery. To illustrate the absence of interference and interference, the list of tests includes test number two, “Noise Level”.
It must be admitted that absolute figures, except for the frequency response test, depend quite strongly on the gain level and amplitude of the test signal, so comparisons can only be made when measuring under approximately equal conditions.
Distortion was measured at a test signal amplitude of −3 dB and a volume of about 90%. If only one frequency response graph is visible, it means that all the others have merged with it into one line. We used the 24-bit 44 kHz format to see as much of the device's inherent noise as possible. Our measurement interface is limited by its own noise of about 110 dBA, which allows us to check the quality of the path. For those devices that have stated passport parameters, our measurements showed the same or better results.
Realtek ALC282
| Test | Realtek ALC282 - | Realtek ALC282 16 | Realtek ALC282 32 | Realtek ALC282 64 | Realtek ALC282 300 |
| +0,00, −0,03 | +0,00, −0,03 | +0,00, −0,03 | +0,00, −0,03 | +0,00, −0,03 | |
| Noise level, dB (A) | −93,5 | −90,0 | −92,1 | −93,4 | −93,6 |
| Harmonic distortion, % | 0,0028 | 0,0030 | 0,0029 | 0,0022 | 0,0023 |
Venture Craft GoDAP BXD
| Test | Venture Craft GoDAP BXD - | Venture Craft GoDAP BXD 16 | Venture Craft GoDAP BXD 32 | Venture Craft GoDAP BXD 64 | Venture Craft GoDAP BXD 300 |
| Frequency response unevenness (from 40 Hz to 15 kHz), dB | −0,11, −0,15 | −0,10, −0,14 | +0,01, −0,04 | +0,01, −0,04 | +0,01, −0,03 |
| Noise level, dB (A) | −99,8 | −99,8 | −99,7 | −99,7 | −99,8 |
| Harmonic distortion, % | 0,0024 | 0,0032 | 0,0028 | 0,0026 | 0,0025 |
USB like universal method connecting devices of various purposes has become so firmly established in modern life that it was worth expecting the appearance Hi-Fi components with this interface. And this actually happened. We recently tested digital converters that allow you to use a computer as a music source, and now we have assembled amplifiers with similar capabilities. There are few of them yet, but you can already see a clear prospect for the future.
IN FACT Implementing a separate USB path into a Hi-Fi component is easy and very inexpensive. A bus chip controller is installed, and the signal from external source(computer) is then redirected to the built-in DAC and then fed into the audio path through the input switch. However, such a scheme seems logical only for those devices that already have such a DAC. That's why CD players and multi-channel receivers were the first to have USB sockets, then external converters. But now stereo amplifiers that have USB on the rear panel are increasingly appearing. Why does an essentially analog device need a socket for a computer cord?
Here it’s worth dotting the “i’s” right away. Some electronics manufacturers thus only leave the user the opportunity to software upgrade control, display, or sound processing algorithms, if such modules are present in the component. For obvious reasons, we did not include in the review amplifiers whose USB socket is not intended for transmitting a music signal at all.
Other developments are also not so simple. Some companies, due to this, only expand the functionality of their integrated or preamplifiers - USB here is nice, convenient, but far from the most important bonus. They say that now you can connect a PC, but the sound quality is not regulated. However, there are already components in which the USB bus is dedicated as the main one or acts on a par with traditional analog inputs. And theoretically, it can really compete with any other transmission methods, because the USB protocol itself is designed like this - it allows the so-called asynchronous mode. The data in it is not transmitted in the form of a continuous stream, not protected from jitter, but with a block integrity check, with a return channel for error correction, and only then, when the required array has accumulated at the receiving end, it is sent for bit-to-bit conversion, as in original code.
It was on an in-depth study of the quality of transmission via the USB protocol that the entire test methodology in this review was built. We will not describe the functionality and internal structure of each amplifier, but will focus on the sound of the amplifiers in all modes and will look for even the slightest differences when moving from analogue to digital input. And in order to minimize subjective errors, we have brought music programs to the same denominator. Everything played on the reference CD player was previously saved on the computer as exact WAV copies and played back by the standard iTunes software player in linear mode with sound and spatial effects turned off.
DEVICE FOUND
"Happy shopping" an integrated amplifier looks like from all points of view Pioneer A-A9MK2. And the price is attractive, and the sound quality (no matter what input you choose) will not leave you indifferent. This device has a really cool DAC on board and a proper USB controller that accepts data from the computer without any degradation. It’s even a little pity that this functionality is not expanded with other digital inputs.
But another Japanese product has all this - the preliminary Onkyo P-3000R. It is strict and solid, made with impeccable quality, and has no equal in terms of versatility, because you can connect not only a computer to it, but everything in general - from a vinyl turntable to a studio recorder. For this, as well as for the soulful, detailed and very clear sound that it shows when paired with a two-channel speaker Onkyo P-5000R, he gets "Expert's Choice".
As much as the “digital” NuForce ICON 2 surprised us with its sound perfection (especially when using analog inputs), we do not recommend considering it as a full-fledged hi-fi component. And the point here is not at all in its class, glamorous appearance or limited functionality. When working via USB, it simply will not be able to produce the proper sound pressure with some “adult” speakers. Although for desktop audio ICON 2 will perhaps be the most competent and interesting acquisition.
The summary for Musical Fidelity M6i will be drawn up in diametrically opposed formulations. First of all, this is a very outstanding audiophile-level integrated amplifier. But USB was clearly added here on a “let it be” principle. By analogy, the M6i produces such a harmonious, strong, polished sound that switching to listening to music from a computer can be a little disappointing.
Measure 7 times
The frequency response of the amplifiers was measured in the range of 20 Hz - 20 kHz at the extreme positions of the tone controls, if any. We also identified the dependence of the SOI on the output power at a load resistance of 4 and 8 Ohms; they are shown in red and green flowers respectively. From these curves one can judge the power supply of the power source and, as a consequence, the dynamic characteristics of the amplifier. The harmonic spectrum, as always, was recorded at a power of 1/10 of the maximum (power at 1% distortion was taken as this). We were unable to characterize the NuForce Icon 2 amplifier because there is a signal delay in its digital path, which the Clio measurement system perceives as a colossal signal phase shift.
USB, as a universal way to connect devices of various purposes, has become so firmly established in modern life that one should expect the appearance of Hi-Fi components with such an interface. And this actually happened. We recently tested digital converters that allow you to use a computer as a music source, and now we have assembled amplifiers with similar capabilities. There are few of them yet, but you can already see a clear prospect for the future.
- A-A9MK2
- ICON 2
- P-3000R/M-5000R
In fact, introducing a separate USB path into a Hi-Fi component is not difficult and very inexpensive. A bus chip controller is installed, and the signal from an external source (computer) is then redirected to the built-in DAC and then fed into the audio path through an input switch. However, such a scheme seems logical only for those devices that already have such a DAC. That's why CD players and multi-channel receivers were the first to have USB sockets, then external converters. But now stereo amplifiers that have USB on the rear panel are increasingly appearing. Why does an essentially analog device need a socket for a computer cord?
Here it’s worth dotting the “i’s” right away. Some electronics manufacturers thus only leave the user the opportunity to software upgrade control, display, or sound processing algorithms, if such modules are present in the component. For obvious reasons, we did not include in the review amplifiers whose USB socket is not intended for transmitting a music signal at all.
Other developments are also not so simple. Some companies, due to this, only expand the functionality of their integrated or preamplifiers - USB here is nice, convenient, but far from the most important bonus. They say that now you can connect a PC, but the sound quality is not regulated. However, there are already components in which the USB bus is dedicated as the main one or acts on a par with traditional analog inputs. And theoretically, it can really compete with any other transmission methods, because the USB protocol itself is designed like this - it allows the so-called asynchronous mode. The data in it is not transmitted in the form of a continuous stream, not protected from jitter, but with a block integrity check, with a return channel for error correction, and only then, when the required array has accumulated at the receiving end, it is sent for bit-to-bit conversion, as in original code.
It was on an in-depth study of the quality of transmission via the USB protocol that the entire test methodology in this review was built. We will not describe the functionality and internal structure of each amplifier, but will focus on the sound of the amplifiers in all modes and will look for even the slightest differences when moving from analogue to digital input. And in order to minimize subjective errors, we have brought music programs to the same denominator. Everything played on the reference CD player was previously saved on the computer as exact WAV copies and played back by the standard iTunes software player in linear mode with sound and spatial effects turned off.
DEVICE FOUND
The integrated amplifier Pioneer A-A9MK2 looks like a “successful purchase” from all points of view. And the price is attractive, and the sound quality (no matter what input you choose) will not leave you indifferent. This device has a really cool DAC on board and a proper USB controller that accepts data from the computer without any degradation. It’s even a little pity that this functionality is not expanded with other digital inputs.
But another Japanese product has all this - the preliminary Onkyo P-3000R. It is strict and solid, made with impeccable quality, and has no equal in terms of versatility, because you can connect not only a computer to it, but everything in general - from a vinyl turntable to a studio recorder. For this, as well as for the soulful, detailed and very clear sound that it delivers when paired with the Onkyo P-5000R two-channel amplifier, it receives an Expert's Choice.
As much as the “digital” NuForce ICON 2 surprised us with its sound perfection (especially when using analog inputs), we do not recommend considering it as a full-fledged hi-fi component. And the point here is not at all in its class, glamorous appearance or limited functionality. When working via USB, it simply will not be able to produce the proper sound pressure with some “adult” speakers. Although for desktop audio ICON 2 will perhaps be the most competent and interesting acquisition.
The summary for Musical Fidelity M6i will be drawn up in diametrically opposed formulations. First of all, this is a very outstanding audiophile-level integrated amplifier. But USB was clearly added here on a “let it be” principle. By analogy, the M6i produces such a harmonious, strong, polished sound that switching to listening to music from a computer can be a little disappointing.
Ideal for playing FLAC, WAV, Apple Lossless and other compression formats without loss of quality.
Topping TP32EX is used digital amplifier class T Tripath TK2050, delivering 50W per channel. Massive gold-plated speaker terminals can handle even the thickest speaker cables. A separate headphone output so as not to disturb neighbors at night, or it can be used to connect a subwoofer.
Order your amplifier delivered in black or silver, because the Topping TP32EX is ideal for organizations high-quality sound on the computer.
Compact size and high power output
The amplifier circuitry is based on the TK2050 power amplification module from Tripath. Thanks to the high efficiency of these modules (about 90%), the amplifier turned out to be compact and with high output power, comparable to its full-size counterparts.
Wide range of connectivity options
Despite its modest size, the Topping TP32EX has the full complement of audio inputs and outputs you would expect from a device specifically designed for use with a computer or netbook, including 1 digital input (coaxial), 1 analog line input, and USB port for quick and convenient connection to a computer. You can use cables or BANANA type connectors with the auxiliary output terminals. The 6.3mm port can be used to connect a subwoofer. The headphone output will be useful at night, in the office, or in other situations when loud noise may disturb surrounding people.
Cirrus Logic CS4392 DAC and Adaptive USB Interface
The TP32EX uses the built-in Cirrus Logic CS4392 DAC for conversion digital signals. There is no need to install drivers on Windows or Mac, just connect the device to your computer using a USB cable. You can then use iTunes, Foobar, or another software player to play your music. Specifications amplifiers will satisfy the most demanding audiophile who prefers sources with a resolution of up to 24bit/192kHz. The adaptive USB interface is currently the best in terms of price/quality ratio, and taking into account the high-quality circuitry in this device, it often outperforms a low-quality DAC with asynchronous USB.
Size doesn't matter
Not every full-size device has a digital volume control based on the CS3310, a remote control and an aluminum front panel, but here it’s all there. Screw-type acoustic terminals, display and selectors are the same as on larger devices. All this makes the device extremely easy to use and connect.
No fans in the case - complete silence
Every effort to reduce noise in sound signal are worth nothing compared to the annoying noise of the cooling fan in the amplifier case. To achieve high power output in a compact size and at the same time quietness, the cooling radiators are placed on the chassis in a special way to effectively dissipate heat without additional fans.
3 output operating modes
The device has a completely separate power amplifier and headphone amplifier. They can work either one at a time or simultaneously. Thus, there are 3 operating modes: speaker amplifier, headphone amplifier, simultaneous operation of amplifiers. In the third mode, you can connect, for example, a subwoofer to the headphone jack. In headphone amplifier mode, you can also use the device as a preamplifier or dedicated DAC.
Specifications
| DAC | |
| Decoder type | Cirrus Logic CS4392, receiver CS8416 |
| USB input | USB2.0 High-Speed, VIA VT1620A controller |
| Type of USB interface operation | Adaptive |
| Supported sampling rates | 44.1/48/96/192kHz (via USB up to 96kHz) |
| Supported bitrate | 16/24bit |
| THD+N(@1kHz) |
0.0057% |
| Amplifier | |
| Amplifier type | Tripath TK2050, TI OPA2134 op amp |
| Connector type | screw terminals, BANANA |
| Acoustic impedance | 4-8 Ohm |
| 50W(4 Ohm, THD+N=10%), 30W(8 Ohm, THD+N=10%) |
|
| frequency range | 20Hz – 20kHz |
| Headphone Amplifier | |
| Headphone impedance | 16-300 Ohm |
| Connector type | 1/4"(6.3mm) Stereo |
| Maximum output power | 140mW(32 Ohm, THD+N=1%) |
| THD+N min. | 0.002% (32Ω, Pout=45mW) |
| THD+N(@1kHz) |
0.02% |
| frequency range | 20-20kHz±2.0dB |
| Digital audio inputs |
USB(type B connector), RCA coaxial |
| Analog audio inputs |
1 x RCA |
| Power adapter | AC 110-230V, DC 24V/5A |
| Dimensions | 115(W) x 50(H) x 185(D) mm |
| Contents of delivery | amplifier, power adapter (24V/5A), remote control, USB cable, user guide |
| Operating system requirements | |
| Microsoft | Windows XP, Windows Vista, Windows 7, Windows 8 |
| Apple | Mac OS X Snow Leopard, OS X Lion, OS X Mountain Lion |
- Free shipping
- website - official Ayre dealer. Manufacturer's warranty
- +12 months additional warranty
- Only we have a $10 discount on the purchase of top-end music player(worth $50)!
- 3% discount on your next order!
Contact us for price
The Ayre EX-8 is an all-in-one device: amplifier, DAC, network transport and headphone amplifier. At the same time, the device retains all of Ayre’s own proprietary technologies, including a fully balanced analog circuit with zero feedback, a special digital filter that significantly improves the sound quality of any file played, as well as the ability to use asynchronous S/PDIF inputs (patent pending) to eliminate jitter without disturbing the original music data, as happens in most cases. In addition to equipment USB ports and Ethernet for maximum flexibility and ease of use, the EX-8 features Roon support and access to Spotify, Qobuz and Tidal streaming services for an endless supply of digital music from around the world.
The EX-8 integrates into virtually any home system today and can be upgraded for use with future technologies.
The EX-8 also allows you to immerse yourself in the world of music using your favorite headphones. Taking full advantage of AyreLock's reliable analog linear power supply, the front panel balanced and unbalanced outputs will effortlessly drive the most demanding headphones. Ayre's innovations are carefully incorporated into this device to ensure musical fidelity and high quality.
The device itself is implemented in 5 options:
EX-8 - DAC and amplifier, without digital inputs;
"Digital Base" version - plus digital inputs (optical/SPDIF/AES);
"USB" version - "Digital Base" version plus USB input;
"Net" version - "Digital Base" version plus Ethernet input;
"Full" version - all digital inputs and Ethernet.
Peculiarities
- Balanced discrete circuit with zero feedback
- Ayre "Double-Diamond" output stage
- AyreLock Linear Analog Power Supply
- Ayre's exclusive Equilock amplification circuit
- ESS ES9038Q2M DAC chip
- Generator clock frequency Ayre
- Digital volume control
- Ayre Digital Minimum Phase Filter
- Single pass 16x oversampling
- Asynchronous S/PDIF input
- Eight digital inputs (maximum configuration): Ethernet, asynchronous USB,
- AES/EBU, optical (3), S/PDIF (2)
- Headphone output
Specifications
Inputs:
Coaxial: up to 24 bit / 192 kHz, DSD64 (DoP)
Optical: up to 24 bit / 192 kHz, DSD64 (DoP)
AES/EBU: up to 24 bit / 192 kHz, DSD64 (DoP)
Ethernet: up to 24 bit / 192 kHz, DSD64 (DoP)
USB: up to 24 bit / 384 kHz (PCM), DSD64, DSD128 (DoP)
Operating systems: Windows (driver installation required), Mac OS, Linux
Output Level: 2.25 Vrms (RCA), 4.5 Vrms (XLR)
Output power: 2 x 100 Watts/8 ohms, 2 x 200 Watts/4 ohms
Power: AC 240 V 50/60 Hz
Size: 440*330*100 mm
Contents: network cable